ESD appeal hearing result delay - normal or bad sign?

It's totally normal for some judges to take longer, especially if your case was complicated or if they're handling a heavy caseload. I had to wait 12 days for my decision last year, and I still won my appeal. The OAH has guidelines saying decisions should be issued within 30 days, though most come much sooner. The fact they acknowledged the judge is actively working on it is actually a good sign - it means your case hasn't fallen through the cracks.

my friend just won hers after 9 days of waiting so don't stress yet!!! they say no news is good news right?? hang in there

In my experience working with unemployment cases, longer deliberation times don't necessarily indicate a negative outcome. The judge may be carefully considering specific evidence or legal precedents that apply to your situation. Complex cases with multiple exhibits or witnesses often require more detailed written decisions, which naturally take longer to draft. The OAH is also experiencing significant backlogs in 2025, with some judges handling 25-30% more cases than their normal capacity. If you're experiencing financial hardship while waiting, consider contacting your local WorkSource office about emergency assistance programs that might help bridge the gap until your decision arrives.

When I had my hearing back in February the STUPID judge took TWO FULL WEEKS to give me my decision!! And guess what? I WON! So don't assume anything. The ESD system is just completely broken and nothing happens when it should. My neighbor got her decision in 24 hours and LOST so honestly I think sometimes the faster ones are the denials because they're easier to write up!!!

I've been trying to reach ESD for weeks about my appeal and kept getting disconnected. I finally used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to a rep yesterday, and they were actually helpful in checking my status. They have this video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. It doesn't solve the waiting problem but at least I could speak to someone who gave me more info than the automated system.

omg i had the same thing happen!!! my appeal took 8 days and i was FREAKING OUT the whole time but i ended up winning. i think they just get really backed up and some judges write longer decisions than others. try not to read into it too much (i know thats easier said than done lol

The timing of appeal decisions varies significantly based on several factors: 1. Complexity of your case (number of exhibits, witnesses, etc.) 2. Legal issues that need to be addressed 3. The judge's current caseload 4. Whether there were any disputed facts requiring detailed analysis Rather than worrying about the timeline, I suggest focusing on your contingency plan. If you haven't already, file your weekly claims during this waiting period so that if you win, you'll receive all back payments promptly. Also, document any job search activities as required, since those requirements remain in effect even during appeals unless you've been specifically exempted. As for the decision itself, judges must analyze all evidence, make credibility determinations, apply the correct legal standards, and write a clear explanation that would survive further appeal. This is especially true in cases where they might be overturning an ESD determination. A thorough decision actually protects you regardless of outcome, as it creates a clearer record if further appeal becomes necessary.

Sorry to hijack but this reminds me of my appeal from last month! I was so nervous I couldn't sleep for days, and then when I finally got the decision (took 5 days), I won but they miscalculated my backpay amount. Had to call 27 times to get them to fix it. Now dealing with a whole new issue about my job search requirements. Does the nightmare ever end with ESD??

I want to address something important: the length of deliberation time is NOT directly correlated with whether you win or lose. I've seen quick denials and quick approvals. I've also seen lengthy deliberations for both outcomes. A more complex case typically requires a more detailed written decision regardless of outcome. The judge needs to cite specific regulations, address each piece of evidence, and create a legally sound document. This takes time. What you can do now: 1. Continue filing weekly claims 2. Check both your mailbox and online portal daily 3. Prepare documents for a further appeal if needed (you'll have 30 days if you need to appeal to Commissioner Review) 4. Look into temporary assistance if you're in immediate financial need Hang in there - a week is completely within normal timeframes for appeal decisions.